Prostate cancer progression inhibition

Project Details

Prostate cancer is one of the commonest cancers worldwide. Our research is looking at mechanisms of prostate cancer progression and of treatment resistance, using molecular biology, structural biology and bioinformatics approaches in biomarker discovery as a means of identifying new diagnostic and drug targets. We have taken 2 approaches. Firstly, we have tested novel inhibitors of prostate cancer invasion/metastasis and secondly, we have undertaken a time-course, whole genome analysis of an in vitro model of evolving androgen resistance. These strategies should lead to new diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic approaches to this common malignancy.

We have identified potential compounds which inhibit prostate cancer progression. The aim of this Honours project is to confirm anti-metastatic potential of these compounds in in vivo mouse models of primary human tumour xenotransplants. In addition, investigation of potential mechanisms of action of these compounds in angiogenesis will be carried out using in vitro tube formation assay.